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‘Whenever you feel like criticizing anyone, just remember that all the people in this world haven’t had the advantages that you’ve had’ (Shmoop Editorial Team). The Great Gatsby revolved around the essence of money and wealth. As noted in the quote above, some are fortunate to be born into such wealth, whereas, others may have labored and fought their way to the top. Throughout the novel, multiple characters undergo their turmoils regarding wealth and all it may entail. The portrayal of wealth in this novel is displayed through two subcategories: old money and new money. The differentiation between the two is the level of intensity that the wealth is displayed and the actual worth it carries about life itself.
Generally speaking, money plays a role emotionally and mentally. “And I hope she’ll be a fool – that’s the best thing a girl can be in this world, a beautiful little fool.” (LitCharts). Daisy attempts to make the point that naivety is the preferred option for women. Although Daisy was in love with Gatsby, she married Tom Buchanan. There was a necessity during this period for women to be married. Often that was their source of income and security. As for Daisy, a state of being unaware and rather flexible with dealing with love would make it easier in life, is an accurate opinion to have. If women were simply oblivious during that time and went with the flow of tradition, then it would be an easy transition if all emotion was set aside. In the same thought, old money plays a huge role in this mindset, by marrying into family money and having wealth passed down was the way of life in the perception of this pair.
When discussing old money, this ideal is portrayed through Tom and Daisy. They carried subtle traits of wealth. Having good taste, appearing sincere, and level head categorized them as old money. Although stability can with the old money ideals, there were a few aspects that would just not be enough. People seemed generally settled in their lives and looked for consistency. Tom had a calm demeanor regarding his wealth, there was not an urge to prove to anyone how rich or well-off he was. Similarly, Daisy had a kind-hearted demeanor and a friendly, elegant aura about herself. However, the connection between the two was not strong and true.”They weren’t happy, and neither of them had touched the chicken or the ale – and yet they weren’t unhappy either” (Shmoop Editorial Team). Although the old money provided a stable life and security, it could not buy love. Daisy was indeed a calm individual, however, the risk and adventure still twirled in the back of her mind. She was in a sense not “the fool” she wished girls to have, therefore placing herself in a compromising position of love and desires.
In contrast, when discussing new money, this ideal is portrayed through Gatsby. He displayed elaborate acts of wealth through parties, housing, clothing, and outlandish tastes. Having huge celebrations, appearing to be the life of the party, and risk categorized him as “new money”. Gatsby had an overall anxious demeanor regarding his wealth, there was always an urge to prove to any and everyone, especially Daisy, how rich he was and the life he could provide for her. ’She’s not leaving me!’ Tom’s words suddenly leaned down over Gatsby. ‘Certainly not for a common swindler who’d have to steal the ring he put on her finger’ (Shmoop Editorial Team).
No matter what it cost him; stealing, lying, or cheating his way into wealth, he had to do it to get Daisy. Similarly, Daisy admired the lengths he went through to capture her heart. She had a relaxed aura about herself around Tom, but around Gatsby, she blossomed. However, the connection between the two would never be allowed to be fulfilled, because she was a married woman. In this period, divorce was frowned upon, therefore they could never truly be together unless they completely relocated. Although, the new money provided adventure, laughs, fun, and entertainment; it could not buy the security and freedom for Gatsby to love Daisy.
Connecting the two worlds had their differences and characteristics. The portrayal of wealth in this novel is displayed through two subcategories: “old money” and “new money”. The differentiation between the two is the level of intensity that the wealth is displayed and the actual worth it carries about life itself. “Old money” was portrayed by providing a relaxed and stable sense regarding wealth, while new money possessed opposite characteristics. The new money came through the displays of elaborate acts of wealth such as; celebrations with vast numbers of celebrities or strangers, the mansion, and Gatsby’s different fabric shirts. It was filled with a sense of risk, adventure, and passion. Old money was reserved or closeted even. There was no need to portray wealth, it was carried about humbly. There were stronger connections made and maintained through old money, whereas with new money Gatsby was virtually alone and surrounded by strangers. In addition to the statement made previously, we can further argue that the new money with all of the importance of materialism, could not buy happiness. No matter the elaborate decor or number of people, the amount of money and how it is portrayed can not buy true happiness. This further supports the reasoning behind Gatsby’s one-man funeral and continuous longing to maintain a connection with Nick. Therefore, Fitzgerald makes the point that no matter the amount or where the money or wealth stems from, it cannot produce everything.
Works Cited
- Shmoop Editorial Team. “The Great Gatsby Quotes.” Shmoop, Shmoop University, 11 Nov. 2008, www.shmoop.com/study-guides/literature/great-gatsby/quotes.
- LitCharts. “Class (Old Money, New Money, No Money) Theme Analysis.” LitCharts, www.litcharts.com/lit/the-great-gatsby/themes/class-old-money-new-money-no-money.
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